Reuse of Rings

If you have been previously married, you should probably consider not reusing the rings from your previous marriage in your new one unless both you and your new spouse are comfortable with it and can agree on it. It may make your new spouse uncomfortable and be seen as disrespectful to your new life together. But, your previous ring may be in a style that you really like and the both of you do not see the use of spending extra money on a new ring. Be sure to discuss it openly with your new spouse to make sure you are both in agreement and there are no hurt feeliing if you will reuse the ring.

If you do decide on having a fresh start with a new ring, what can you do with the old one? You can consider either selling the ring (if you are comfortable with getting rid of it all together), getting it reset to wear as another piece of jewelry or if you had children from your previous marriage, you can hang onto it to pass it onto them when they are old enough to take it.

Gifts at Your Reception

While it's probably going to be the most convenient for your guests to bring gifts to your wedding, it can be impractical and a hassle for the couple to bring all of those gifts back home with them, especially if you will be leaving on your honeymoon right after the reception (or for your relatives, who may have to take on the task of carrying all those gifts back in their car).

Be sure to let your family and friends know (and have them spread the word to your other guests through word of mouth) that guests should bring or send the gifts to your house (or a relative's house) before your ceremony. They can drop off the gift before the day of the ceremony, before the ceremony, or even right after. It will save you and your relatives a lot of legwork (and car room!) if gifts can be received away from the ceremony and reception. Most likely you will not even get a chance to open your gifts until a few days after the wedding anyway, when you are back and refreshed from your honeymoon.

Name Change

There are a few options available for getting your name changed and the choice is entirely up to you! Some brides chose to hyphenate their name with a combination of their maiden name and their husband's name. Another option is to change your middle name to your maiden name and take your husband's last name - or, you can your new husband can both change your middle names to your maiden name and have the same last name. Another option to consider is that you can take your husband's last name and use your maiden name only at work (this way you can avoid business card and letterhead changes). You can even have your husband take on your maiden name! It really all depends on your desires and wishes. Ultimately the decision is yours, as if will really only effect your life, your husband's life and your immediate family.

A great way to spread the news about your new name is in your thank you cards. You can both sign your name and let your guests know what your new name(s) will be. A newspaper announcement or announcement cards may also be in order to let those who did not attend the wedding know of your new names.